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The renowned Cuban actor and comedian Alexis Valdés paid an emotional tribute to his great friend and colleague, José Ricardo Téllez Fernández, known as “El Chico Bombón,” after his unexpected passing.
The heartfelt farewell was shared on social media alongside images of significant moments from his professional and personal life, especially from the film Un Rey en La Habana, where they both played two brothers.
In his message, Valdés recalled the years of friendship that united them since their childhood in the neighborhood where they grew up, through Téllez's beginnings in Cuban television, to his establishment as a comedian and their joint participation in the successful movie that changed both of their lives.
“I met you as a child, in the neighborhood, riding that bicycle that you were told you had to pedal all the time to grow. You were my mother’s student, my sister’s classmate, the unique guy from the neighborhood,” Valdés said. With a nostalgic tone, he recalled how the film A King in Havana not only brought them back together but also allowed them to share tours and joys in Spain.
The message also reflected Valdés's gratitude towards his friend for his noble character, generosity, and unique charm. "You were always generous, easy to work with, charming, respectful, decent. The entire film crew loved you," he stated. However, he deeply regretted not having had the opportunity to work with him again on the planned sequel to A King in Havana.
José. The champion. The best of all. The most noble. The one who always laughed and who was always likable. I met you as a child, in the neighborhood, riding that bicycle they told you you had to pedal all the time to grow. You were my mother's student, my sister's classmate, the unique guy in the neighborhood. The one who was small, but never let himself be pushed around. He didn't allow anyone to bully him.
Later, I left Cuba and spent five years in Spain. I returned to Havana and created a television show that was your first TV program. You had already become a comedian, my friend from the neighborhood. I invited you to my show and then went back to Spain. Nearly 10 years passed, and one day I wrote a movie that I had no idea would bring us back together. It was a miracle.
I was in Santiago de Chile and I shared the script of my movie with the actor Antonio Arroyo, and he asked me, “Who is going to play the character of the brother?”. I told him, “I haven't decided yet.” And he said, “What about that little black guy, your friend?” And the skies opened up for me, because with your presence and your unique grace, you made the movie better.
Then we were together Kings of Havana. We traveled all over Spain presenting the film and laughing time and again. How could I not thank you, brother? You were always generous, easy to get along with, charming, respectful, decent. The entire film crew loved you, everyone: the Cubans and the Spaniards. And you were so happy in Spain, starring in a movie. We had such a great time. And that film, in a way, also changed your life. It was an immense pleasure to be able to contribute that to you.
You returned to Cuba, and later I came to Miami and did my first show. When I was about to start the second one, I tried to bring you with us. We even got scammed, and it didn’t happen. Specifically, this year we had said that, in any case, we would do the second part of Un Rey en La Habana... Well, it's such a shame, such a shame not to have you here for more time, in this sometimes physical and coarse life. But I know that you continue on in spirit. We do not die; we transition to a different state where we are only souls. So I send an eternal hug to your beautiful soul.
"We've already dreamed of the movie. I love you."
José Téllez, who was found dead in his Miami apartment last Wednesday night, was 56 years old at the time of his passing. The news was confirmed by relatives of the comedian, who also expressed their grief on social media. Authorities are investigating the causes of his death.
With this loss, the Cuban artistic community bids farewell to a great comedian whose presence and talent left an indelible mark on cinema and television. Valdés concluded his message with a heartfelt tribute: “I send an eternal hug to your beautiful soul. I love you.”
The legacy of "El Chico Bombón" will live on in the memories of those who enjoyed his art and in the recollections of those who knew him as an incomparable friend.
Frequently asked questions about Alexis Valdés's farewell to José Téllez, "El Chico Bombón."
Who was José Téllez, known as "El Chico Bombón"?
José Téllez, "El Chico Bombón", was a prominent Cuban comedian who left an indelible mark on Cuban cinema and television. He began his career in the humor group Los Hepáticos and participated in significant events such as the National Humor Festival Aquelarre. He is known for his role in the film "Un Rey en La Habana" alongside Alexis Valdés and for his contribution to Cuban humor, both on the island and in the diaspora.
How did Alexis Valdés react to the death of José Téllez?
Alexis Valdés paid an emotional tribute to José Téllez on his social media. He reminisced about their friendship from childhood, their collaboration in the film "Un Rey en La Habana," and expressed regret for not being able to work with him again on the planned sequel. Valdés highlighted Téllez's noble and generous spirit, as well as his impact on the Cuban artistic community.
What legacy does José Téllez leave in Cuban humor?
José Téllez leaves an invaluable legacy in Cuban comedy. His unique style, dedication to humor, and ability to connect with the audience made him an icon of Cuban culture. His work in film, television, and theater, both in Cuba and in exile, left a deep mark on those who enjoyed his art and knew him as an exceptional friend.
What details are known about the death of José Téllez?
José Téllez was found dead in his apartment in Miami. He was 56 years old at the time of his passing. Authorities are investigating the causes of his death, which has left his fans and the Cuban entertainment world in shock.
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